Joye's Update 8/28/08

Andrew had a really good day today. They have been working very hard this week at getting him fitted (correctly) to his new chair as well as to get some devices put on the chair that will help him to be more independent. They put his cell phone on it as well as well as a camel-back (type) drinking system so that he can always keep hydrated and won't need assistance with getting a drink. His phone is set up to receive voice commands along with a blue tooth device that he can click on and off up against a thing near the side of his head, and he can also push the buttons on the phone with a mouth stick if necessary. We are also planning on getting a home system that will allow him to operate the TV, DVD, VCR, etc., as well as to turn on lights and unlock and open doors. He can also operate a computer with a laser light (mouse) system, but he said he's never had an interest in computers so at this time he doesn't want that device. We are so thankful to God for this place. They have really brought Andrew a long ways in a short amount of time. I just can't believe the difference in him from when we first got here. Although our life will be very different when we return home . . . we are both so happy to be able to get back there to begin our much different life together in our newly modified home with our kids, family and friends. Andrew has told me that he feels very fortunate that he made it through all of this and that he'd much rather be alive and with us . . . even if in a chair, than the alternative of not being here to enjoy his life and his family. He's been so strong and I've never been so proud of him. His will and determination have proven doctors wrong, his faith in God is what keeps him going, and your prayers and encouragement have made all the difference . . . we cannot thank you enough for that. This has all been to God's glory and delight and it has restored some peoples faith and strengthened others in the Lord, and that has touched me in a way that I don't think I could describe. God is awesome and He has seen us through this, that's for sure. Good Night and God Bless you all. Joye